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My dog has black diarrhea. What causes it and should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | 8 years and 7 months old | 12 lbs

Hi our yorkie which is 8 years old and has had a normal diet and hasn't eaten anything like a toy ect. Has pooped on the floor but its a black diarrhea?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 17th, 2018

Poor Tobey! Black diarrhea indicates bleeding in the upper GI tract. This could be due to ulcers, tumors of the GI tract, a GI infection, kidney failure, Addison's disease, eating something rotten, or liver disease to name some causes. I would have him seen by a vet for this problem, but as long as he's acting normal, you don't not need to rush him into the ER vet. If he continues pooping black diarrhea, he starts vomiting, he becomes very lethargic, or he stops eating, I would take him into an ER vet. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 7th, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Tinka. If there is an emergency veterinarian in your area, I would recommend that he be seen. Monday is too long to wait if he is experiencing black stool. This can indicate bleeding from the stomach or upper small intestines. He will likely need some testing to determine the cause of his symptoms and treatment. A condition known as pancreatitis is a common cause of vomiting a d diarrhea in his breed. In the meantime, continue to offer hom water so that he does not become dehydrated. You can discontinue the ProGut as it does not seem to be helping. It would best for him to be seen and that veterinarian will give you feeding advice. Otherwise offer very small meals of either his regular food or the chicken and rice every 3-4 hours. I hope this information helps!

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